Glenbow and University of Calgary partner on new research centre

The Pro Bono Cause

Glenbow Museum has been an integral part of the cultural fabric of the Calgary community for over 50 years and is one of the largest and most innovative museums in Canada. Its world-class collections of art, archives and other objects and documents celebrate the legacy of the peoples, events and landscape that have shaped the community as a whole and inspire and create new cultural and artistic experiences for visitors.  Glenbow is actively involved in the community, through initiatives such as school programs and summer youth programs.  Its strategic direction is focused on its role as a leading public art museum and opportunities to provide enhanced access to other parts of its collections through partnerships with leading educational and cultural institutions.

The Osler Pro Bono Connection

Neal Ross, a partner in Osler’s Corporate Group in Calgary, and Jack Thrasher, a recently retired partner from Osler’s Energy Group and a member of Glenbow’s Board of Governors, assisted Glenbow in negotiating a detailed 99-year loan agreement to partner with the University of Calgary in creating the historic new Glenbow Western Research Centre at the University of Calgary. Glenbow’s Library and Archives are being relocated to the new centre, which will increase access, teaching and research opportunities for students, academics and the public. This innovative relationship between two of Canada’s leading learning institutions was approved by the Province of Alberta. Glenbow enjoys the additional benefit of having more space to house its world-class contemporary and historical art collection.